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The Multidisciplinary Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) Clinic at Lurie Children's cares for the children of all ages diagnosed with TSC. Our team provides comprehensive individualized care to children with TSC, and actively participates in research to contribute to the growth and development of treatment choices as we continue to sure for a cure.
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder that can lead to the formation of benign tumor-like lesions in organs throughout the body. These primarily include the brain, eyes, heart, kidneys, lungs, oral cavity, and skin. TSC affects each person differently with some people having more manifestations than others. Some manifestations of TSC may appear at birth while others may not appear until a child is older.
TSC affects about 1 million people worldwide and occurs in about 1 in every 6,000 births. TSC can occur in any individual regardless of their background or gender.
TSC is a genetic disease that can be inherited from one parent with TSC or can result from a spontaneous genetic mutation. TSC is an autosomal dominant genetic condition, which means that children have a 50% chance of inheriting TSC if one of their parents has the condition. Researchers estimate that only one-third of TSC cases are known to be inherited while the other two-thirds result from a random and unpredictable mutation.
Every child’s TSC clinical findings can vary and present differently. Seizures are the most common symptom leading to a diagnosis of TSC.
Currently, there is no known cure for TSC. Treatment for TSC is based on the symptoms and clinical findings of each child and can be unique for each person. Research is ongoing to advance treatment options for TSC. It is important to closely follow with your medical provider and obtain surveillance tests to obtain the most up to date information available. Some treatment options for children with seizures include medications (anti-seizure medications, mTOR inhibitors), the ketogenic diet, epilepsy surgery, and neuromodulation.
Entry into the tuberous sclerosis clinic is done through our Epilepsy Center’s physician referrals. To schedule an appointment with one of our epileptologists, call our Epilepsy Center at 312.227.3540.